There’s something truly satisfying about the comfort of an open-faced tuna melt, especially when topped with crispy bacon. The first time I indulged in this delightful combination, it felt like a welcoming hug on a chilly day. As I combined tender albacore tuna, vibrant red onion, and a touch of creamy goodness, I knew I was on to something special.
This recipe transforms a simple canned tuna salad into an upscale treat that’s perfect for lunch or a casual dinner. The brilliant balance of flavors—from the richness of Swiss cheese melting under the broiler to the crunch of crumbled bacon sprinkled on top—will surprise anyone who thinks a tuna melt is just… well, a tuna melt.
Whether you’re rediscovering home cooking after a boring week of fast food or hunting for a dish that truly impresses without much hassle, this Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe that will rejuvenate your meal routine and satisfy your cravings!
Why love this Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon?
Irresistibly Flavorful: The savory combination of tuna and crispy bacon will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Easy to Prepare: Using just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this tasty dish in no time.
Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack—this recipe fits any occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s a delightful twist on a classic that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Elevated Comfort Food: This dish transforms ordinary tuna salad into something truly special; you won’t find this at fast food joints!
Get ready to impress with an easy and delicious recipe that will satisfy your cravings.
Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon Ingredients
Dive into the deliciousness of this Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon!
For the Tuna Salad
- Solid white albacore tuna – use quality tuna for the best flavor and texture.
- Chopped red onion – adds a zesty crunch that brightens the dish.
- Celery – for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy elements.
- Mayonnaise – provides the creamy base; Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute.
- Sour cream – adds a tangy depth; you can skip it if you prefer.
For the Assembly
- English muffins – the perfect base for toasty goodness; feel free to use whole wheat for added fiber.
- Swiss cheese – melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor; Gruyere works well too.
- Bacon – crispy crumbles bring that savory crunch; turkey bacon is a great alternative.
- Fresh snipped chives – they garnish with a pop of color and subtle onion flavor.
Get ready to create a masterpiece that elevates your mealtime and delights your taste buds!
How to Make Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon
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Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the drained and flaked tuna, chopped red onion, celery, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir until well blended; this will be your creamy tuna salad base.
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to broil. This high heat will help melt the cheese quickly, giving a delightful bubbly texture.
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Prepare Muffins: Place the split English muffins on a baking sheet, cut side up. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer for even toasting.
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Spread the Tuna Mix: Generously top each muffin half with the tuna mixture. Spread it evenly to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.
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Add Cheese: Lay a slice of Swiss cheese over each muffin half, allowing it to blanket the tuna salad and meld beautifully as it melts.
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Broil Until Golden: Broil the muffins in the oven for about 3-5 minutes. Watch closely until the cheese is melted and bubbling, giving a golden touch.
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Finish with Toppings: Carefully remove the tray from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled bacon and fresh chives on top. This adds a wonderful crunch and a pop of flavor.
Optional: Serve with a side of pickles for a tangy contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon
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Quality Tuna Matters: Use high-quality solid white albacore tuna for the best flavor and texture; skip the budget brands that may taste fishy.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the tuna salad ingredients, mix gently to keep the tuna from becoming mushy; you want a nice, chunky texture.
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Vigilant Broiling: Keep a close eye on the muffins while broiling. Cheese can go from perfectly melted to burnt quickly; don’t walk away!
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Customize It: Feel free to add ingredients like diced pickles or capers to elevate the tuna salad; get creative to suit your taste.
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Crisp Bacon: For the best crunch, cook bacon until it’s nice and crispy before crumbling; soggy bacon can ruin the texture of your Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon.
Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon Variations
Get creative with your Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon by trying these delicious twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the tuna mixture for a zesty kick. Spice lovers will adore the added heat!
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh dill or parsley into your tuna salad for an aromatic touch. This elevates the flavor profile and adds a fresh note.
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Cheese Alternatives: Swap Swiss cheese for cheddar or pepper jack for a bolder flavor. Each cheese brings its unique character to this delightful dish.
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Vegetarian Style: Use chickpeas instead of tuna for a hearty vegetarian option. Mash them slightly and mix with the usual ingredients for a delicious, protein-packed alternative.
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Crunchy Add-ins: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or sliced olives to the tuna salad for an extra crunch. Adding texture makes each bite even more enjoyable.
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Nutty Twist: Stir in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. This variation adds a unique depth that is sure to impress.
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Creamy Upgrade: Replace mayonnaise with avocado for a healthier, creamier swap. The rich texture pairs beautifully with the tuna and adds a fresh twist.
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Tropical Touch: Mix in some diced pineapple or mango for an unexpected fruity flavor burst. This sweet surprise will awaken your taste buds!
How to Store and Freeze Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon immediately for the best taste; it’s not safe to leave it out for more than 2 hours.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, store the tuna salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the muffins separately to maintain their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unassembled tuna salad (without the muffins) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before assembling and broiling.
Reheating: To revive leftovers, reheat assembled muffins in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is melted. Enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the tuna salad mixture (tuna, red onion, celery, mayonnaise, and sour cream) up to 3 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. The English muffins can also be split and laid out on a baking sheet, ready for assembling just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, spread the tuna mixture on the muffins, top with Swiss cheese, and broil for 3-5 minutes until bubbly. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal with very little effort!
What to Serve with Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon?
Elevate your mealtime experience with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement this savory dish.
- Crispy Side Salad: A fresh salad adds a crunchy contrast, enhancing the meal with vibrant greens and light dressings.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness balances the savory flavors of the tuna melt; plus, they offer a fun crunch!
- Tomato Soup: The warm, comforting nature of tomato soup is the perfect partner, creating a classic lunch combo reminiscent of childhood.
- Potato Chips: For a delightful crunch, pair with your favorite chips; they provide enjoyable texture and salty satisfaction.
- Pickles or Olives: These tangy bites cut through the richness of the tuna melt, adding a refreshing zing that enhances every bite.
- Chilled White Wine: A refreshing glass of crisp white wine can elevate the dish, harmonizing with the richness of the cheese and bacon.
Choosing the right sides can create a complete dining experience that warms the heart and satisfies the soul!
Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best tuna for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon, opt for high-quality solid white albacore tuna packed in water. Look for brands with minimal additives and no “fishy” smell. Canned tuna should have a light color and a pleasant aroma.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very important! If you have any leftovers, store the tuna salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat your English muffins separately before topping them with the tuna salad to keep everything nice and crispy.
Can I freeze the tuna salad for later use?
Of course! To freeze your Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon, I recommend freezing the unassembled tuna salad (without the muffins and toppings) in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before assembling and broiling.
What if I’m allergic to certain ingredients?
Certainly! If you have dietary restrictions, consider alternatives: use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option, turkey bacon for a lower-fat choice, and gluten-free English muffins or lettuce wraps for a gluten-free version. Always check labels if allergies are a concern.
How can I prevent the cheese from burning while broiling?
Great question! Broiling requires attention; keep a close eye on your Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon as it broils. Cheese can go from bubbly to burnt quickly! Set a timer for 3 minutes, and peek in to see if it’s melting beautifully. If you’re unsure, you can always turn the oven heat down to 400°F instead of using the broil setting.
What can I serve alongside this tuna melt?
Absolutely recommend pairing your tuna melt with a side of crisp pickles or a fresh green salad for a delightful contrast! You could also serve it with sweet potato fries for a hearty meal. The more the merrier!
Savory Open Faced Tuna Melt with Bacon for Ultimate Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix the drained and flaked tuna, chopped red onion, celery, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir until well blended; this will be your creamy tuna salad base.
- Set your oven to broil. This high heat will help melt the cheese quickly, giving a delightful bubbly texture.
- Place the split English muffins on a baking sheet, cut side up. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer for even toasting.
- Generously top each muffin half with the tuna mixture. Spread it evenly to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Lay a slice of Swiss cheese over each muffin half, allowing it to blanket the tuna salad and meld beautifully as it melts.
- Broil the muffins in the oven for about 3-5 minutes. Watch closely until the cheese is melted and bubbling, giving a golden touch.
- Carefully remove the tray from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled bacon and fresh chives on top. This adds a wonderful crunch and a pop of flavor.